Sometimes, all it takes is asking “why not?” The Rotary Club of Activate Victoria did just that, partnering with new sister clubs in the Philippines to deliver two life-changing Global Grants.From the Bicol Mobility Center, providing prosthetics closer to home, to Project Walking Free, restoring mobility and independence for those in need, these initiatives are empowering individuals, building local capacity, and creating lasting impact.
With trained local practitioners now fabricating devices, and three clubs officially united as sister clubs, this is a story of courage, collaboration, and the power of the Rotary Foundation to transform lives, one step at a time.
Over the past six months, the Rotary Club of Activate Victoria has proudly witnessed the impact of two transformative Global Grants, working alongside our new sister clubs in the Philippines to bring life-changing mobility solutions to those who need them most.
The first initiative, "EMPOWERING MOBILITY: Bridging the Gap in Assistive Technology for BICOL MOBILITY CENTER", in partnership with the Rotary Club of Cubayao Circle, addresses the urgent need for prosthetic and orthotic services in the Bicol region. With over 113,000 individuals living with disabilities in the area, access to quality mobility care has long been limited by distance, cost, and the shortage of skilled practitioners. This project trains local healthcare professionals in prosthetics and orthotics, who are now stationed at the Bicol Mobility Center. The centre not only provides essential mobility devices closer to home, but also serves as a hub for training, education, and community support, bringing independence, confidence, and inclusion to persons with disabilities.
The second initiative, "WALKING FORWARD: The Magic of Rotary...Project Walking Free", developed in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Lipa South, continues this mission by providing high-quality, custom-fitted prosthetic limbs free of charge to indigent individuals. By restoring mobility and functional independence, the project empowers recipients to return to school, work, and community life. Beneficiaries gain more than movement, they regain dignity, self-confidence, and the ability to contribute to society, while families experience reduced financial and social burdens.
Both projects emphasise capacity building, with local trainees now fabricating prosthetic devices under the supervision of licensed prosthetists. Implementation continues in Naga City, ensuring that these vital services are sustainable, locally managed, and scalable to reach those most in need.
What makes these achievements particularly exciting is how simple it can be to start meaningful Global Grants. Often, it begins with a conversation overseas asking “why not?” and recognising the power of tapping into the Rotary Foundation. With commitment, collaboration, and a bit of courage, Rotary clubs can create life-changing impact across the globe.
Following these grants, it was officially announced that the Rotary Club of Activate Victoria, Rotary Club of Lipa South, and Rotary Club of Cubayao Circle are now sister clubs, strengthening our commitment to collaboration and future initiatives that empower communities and transform lives.
